Radon Testing

Radon testing is simple process and one of the many services offered by Homes by Cynthia.  A test can be set at the time of the home inspection, or as a standalone service. The results can be processed and sent out within two days.

About Radon

Radon is a naturally occurring gas that enters your home as the bedrock decays.  The gas cannot be seen, smelled or tasted.  The reason radon is bad is because the gas is radioactive. Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States. The EPA has maps that shows the levels of radon in the state according to location.

High Radon Results

Radon is measured in picocuries per liter of air, shorthand written as pCi/L. For the health reasons stated above, radon tests that have results at or above 4pCi/L should have a radon mitigation system installed. Mitigation systems are typically easy to install and are very effective at reducing radon levels.

During Radon Testing

In order to ensure the most accurate testing environment, Homes by Cynthia will request certain conditions be met. Prior to setting the radon test, the house must have closed house conditions for at least 24 hours. This means:

• Windows and exterior doors should be kept closed, other than normal activity.
• Leave all heating or AC thermostats at normal settings.
• Do not operate whole-house fans, fireplace, or wood stoves.

It is important that you not move or touch the radon testing equipment. This equipment will be placed in the lowest possible, habitable location in the house.

Testing Equipment

Homes by Cynthia will use one of two types of Radon Detection equipment, both of which provide reliable results. The first is called continuous radon monitoring test, CRM, and is rectangular in shape. The second is E-Perm, which reads the electric charge off of a plate contained in a canister. This one looks like a rounded jar. Both tests take 48 hours and passively accept air in the house.

For more questions about our Radon Testing, please feel free to contact us.